Amazing BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese for Mouthwatering Comfort

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is like a warm hug from your favorite comfort food – creamy, cheesy, and with a smoky twist that’ll make you swoon. Imagine twirling a fork through rich, gooey cheese, perfectly cooked pasta, and tender chicken coated in tangy barbecue sauce. It’s that kind of dish that makes you forget your troubles and maybe even your diet, if only for a moment. For more inspiration, check out this Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe.

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This delicious BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is perfect for family gatherings, cozy nights in, or any occasion where you want to impress (or bribe) your friends. Whip it up on game day, serve it at potlucks, or enjoy it as an indulgent weekday dinner. Trust me; you’ll want to dive face-first into this bowl of goodness!

Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
• Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor.
• Pasta: Elbow macaroni is classic here, but feel free to experiment with other shapes like shells or cavatappi.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: A must-have! Opt for sharp cheddar for extra flavor; it melts beautifully.
• Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite brand or homemade version to give that smoky sweetness everyone craves.
• Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the dish while creating that velvety cheese sauce we all love.

For the Sauce:

• Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to better control the saltiness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Season the chicken with salt and pepper before cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil and sauté the seasoned chicken until golden brown on both sides. This should take around 6-8 minutes per side. Once cooked through, remove from heat and let rest before shredding.

Step 3: Boil the Pasta

While your chicken cools, bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add elbow macaroni (or your chosen pasta) and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Create the Cheesy Sauce

In a separate saucepan over medium heat, melt some butter before adding minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant—about one minute—then stir in heavy cream and let it thicken slightly. Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese while stirring until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Once everything is ready, mix together the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, barbecue sauce, and cheesy mixture in a large bowl until well combined.

Step 6: Bake

Transfer everything into your prepared baking dish and bake for about 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with additional barbecue sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Now you’ve got yourself a mouthwatering dish of BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese that’s sure to satisfy! Enjoy every cheesy bite while basking in culinary glory!

Perfecting BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first until it’s golden and juicy, then cook your pasta al dente while whipping up a creamy cheese sauce. Combine everything together with your favorite BBQ sauce, and voilà! You have a delightful dish ready to impress.

Add Your Touch to BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Don’t hesitate to swap out the chicken for pulled pork or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick or add veggies like spinach or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.

Storing & Reheating BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to keep it creamy, warming it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop for best results.

Sometimes, I’ll serve this dish at gatherings, only to hear friends rave about how they could eat it every day! It’s moments like these that remind me why I love cooking so much.

FAQs About BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

What is BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delicious fusion dish that combines the creamy, cheesy goodness of macaroni and cheese with the smoky, tangy flavors of barbecue chicken. This comforting meal typically features cooked macaroni mixed with a rich cheese sauce, shredded barbecue chicken, and sometimes topped with crispy breadcrumbs or additional cheese. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a hearty dish.

How do I make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese from scratch?

To make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese from scratch, start by cooking your pasta al dente. In a separate saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually add milk and your choice of cheeses until the sauce is smooth. Stir in shredded cooked chicken mixed with BBQ sauce. Combine everything together and bake until golden brown on top. This homemade version allows you to customize flavors to your liking!

Can I use leftover chicken for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?

Absolutely! Leftover chicken works great in BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese. Simply shred the leftover chicken and mix it with your favorite barbecue sauce before stirring it into the macaroni and cheese mixture. Using leftover chicken not only saves time but also enhances the flavor of the dish, making it even more enjoyable.

What side dishes pair well with BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad for some crunch or coleslaw for added tanginess. Grilled vegetables or corn on the cob also complement this rich dish perfectly, balancing out its creamy texture while adding vibrant colors to your plate.

Conclusion for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

In conclusion, BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is an indulgent dish that brings together the best of both worlds—comfort food meets barbecue flavor. By using leftover chicken or preparing it from scratch, you can easily tailor this recipe to suit your taste preferences. With its creamy texture and savory taste, this dish is sure to be a hit at any gathering or family meal. Enjoy making this delightful recipe today!

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BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

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• Author: Aliza
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese combines the creamy comfort of macaroni and cheese with the smoky, tangy flavors of barbecue chicken. This indulgent dish features tender chicken enveloped in a rich cheese sauce, making it a crowd-pleaser for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Easy to prepare and utterly satisfying, it’s sure to leave everyone asking for seconds!

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Ingredients

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• 3 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sauté in a skillet with oil for 6-8 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from heat, let rest, then shred.
3. Boil the macaroni in salted water until al dente; drain.
4. In a saucepan, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and gradually add cheddar cheese until smooth.
5. Combine pasta, shredded chicken, barbecue sauce, and cheese sauce in a large bowl until well mixed.
6. Transfer to the prepared baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 560
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 53g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 80mg